Welsh hospitals are understaffed and overstretched. Over two-thirds of trainees report regular and frequent rota gaps, almost one-third of advertised consultant posts go unfilled, and absence due to sickness is rising. As 120 doctors and health professionals gather today (Thursday 9 May) in Deeside for the Royal College of Physician’s (RCP) second north Wales conference, the college has published a new report which showcases several innovative case studies and suggests how things could be improved in the future.

The RCP has announced the shortlist for the 2019 Excellence in Patient Care Awards. The awards were launched in 2015 to promote and reward the impressive work that physicians are doing around the world to improve patient care, through education, innovation, research and clinical practice.